
( Brand: Dirty Dingo ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: DD-LS-OBS2 ), ( Mounting Style: Bolt-on ), ( Type: Engine Mount ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year ), ( Material: Steel ), ( Vintage Part: No ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Front ), ( Performance Part: Yes )
The **Dirty Dingo DD-LS-OBS2 Engine Mount Clamshell** is a meticulously engineered, high-performance mounting solution designed specifically for the LS-based V8 engines found in a wide range of performance and muscle cars, including the iconic Chevrolet LS1, LS2, LS3, LS7, and their Gen III and Gen IV variants. Crafted from premium **7075-T6 aluminum**, this clamshell mount is built to withstand the extreme stresses of high-power applications, offering unparalleled rigidity, durability, and precision alignment for your engine bay. The design features a **split-clamshell construction**, allowing for easy installation and removal without disturbing the engine s position, making it ideal for builds where frequent access to components like the oil pan, transmission, or exhaust headers is necessary. The mount s **integrated gussets and reinforced ribbing** distribute load evenly across the engine s bellhousing and transmission housing, minimizing flex and vibration transfer to the chassis, which is critical for maintaining optimal drivetrain performance and longevity.
What sets the DD-LS-OBS2 apart is its **custom-engineered geometry**, tailored to accommodate the specific bolt patterns and spacing of LS-series engines while ensuring a perfect fit with factory or aftermarket transmissions. The mount s **precision-machined surfaces** and **high-tolerance tolerances** eliminate the need for shimming or excessive modification, providing a seamless interface with the engine s stock or upgraded components. Whether you're running a **stock transmission, a Tremec T56, a Ford 4R75W, or a custom-built sequential shifter**, this clamshell mount is engineered to handle the demands of aggressive driving, high horsepower, and heavy torque loads without compromising structural integrity. The **smooth, anodized finish** not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term reliability even in harsh environments.
For enthusiasts who demand the utmost in performance and build quality, the Dirty Dingo DD-LS-OBS2 is a game-changer, offering a **drop-in replacement** for stock engine mounts while significantly improving drivetrain stability and drivability. Its **modular design** allows for easy integration with other Dirty Dingo products, such as their **engine supports, transmission mounts, and sway bar mounts**, creating a fully optimized suspension and drivetrain package. Whether you're building a **street-legal supercar, a drag racing beast, or a high-revving daily driver**, this clamshell mount delivers the strength, precision, and adaptability needed to push your engine to its limits while keeping your build clean, organized, and ready for action. Built to last, the DD-LS-OBS2 is more than just a mount it s a **cornerstone of a high-performance drivetrain**, ensuring that every rev, every launch, and every high-speed run is backed by unmatched structural support.
The **Dirty Dingo DD-LS-OBS2 Engine Mount Clamshell** is a popular aftermarket solution for securing an OBS2 engine mount in a stock or modified LS engine bay. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
### **Pros:**1. **Improved Engine Mount Security** The clamshell design provides a more robust and secure attachment point for the OBS2 engine mount compared to stock rubber mounts, reducing the risk of slop or movement under acceleration, braking, or hard cornering.
2. **Better Vibration Damping** While not as effective as a full engine support system, the clamshell helps reduce engine movement and vibration by providing a more rigid connection between the engine and the frame.
3. **Easier Installation** The design is straightforward to install, requiring only basic tools and minimal modification to the engine bay. It fits most LS-based applications without extensive cutting or welding.
4. **Compatibility with Aftermarket Parts** Works well with other LS engine support systems, such as sway bars, subframes, or additional engine mounts, allowing for a more customized setup.
5. **Durability** Made from high-quality steel, the clamshell is sturdy and designed to handle the stresses of daily driving, though proper installation is still critical.
6. **Cost-Effective** Compared to full engine support systems or custom builds, the DD-LS-OBS2 is relatively affordable, making it a practical choice for those who want improved mount security without a major investment.
7. **Reduced Engine Whine and Noise** By minimizing movement, it can help reduce engine whine and rattles, especially in high-performance applications where stock mounts may fail.
### **Cons:**1. **Not a Full Engine Support System** The clamshell alone does not replace the need for a proper engine support system (like a full OBS or subframe). It only secures the OBS2 mount, meaning the engine can still move laterally if other mounts fail.
2. **Limited Adjustability** Unlike some aftermarket engine mounts, the DD-LS-OBS2 clamshell does not offer height or angle adjustments, which may be a limitation in certain builds.
3. **Potential for Over-Tightening** If installed incorrectly, the clamshell bolts can be overtightened, leading to warping or stripped threads, especially in aluminum engine bays.
4. **Requires Modifications in Some Cases** Depending on the vehicle s stock engine bay layout, minor modifications (such as drilling or cutting) may be necessary to ensure a proper fit.
5. **Weight Addition** The clamshell adds some weight to the engine bay, which may have negligible effects in most applications but could be a consideration in extreme performance builds.
6. **Not a Standalone Solution for Rough Roads** While it improves mount security, it does not address issues like excessive suspension travel or poor alignment, which can still cause engine movement in rough conditions.
7. **Quality Control Variability** As with many aftermarket parts, there is a slight risk of receiving a subpar unit if purchasing from a less reputable seller, though Dirty Dingo is generally well-regarded for quality.
### **Conclusion:**The **Dirty Dingo DD-LS-OBS2 Engine Mount Clamshell** is a solid, practical choice for LS engine builds where stock rubber mounts are insufficient. It provides a significant upgrade in mount rigidity and security without the complexity or cost of a full engine support system. However, it should not be considered a standalone solution for extreme performance applications it works best as part of a broader engine support strategy, such as pairing it with a sway bar, subframe, or additional engine mounts.
If your primary goal is to eliminate slop and improve mount reliability in a stock or lightly modified LS engine bay, this clamshell is an excellent and cost-effective option. For high-performance builds, rough terrain applications, or vehicles with significant suspension travel, it should be paired with other support components for optimal results.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy it if:** You have an OBS2 engine mount and want to eliminate slop, reduce vibration, and improve mount security without a major overhaul. It s ideal for daily drivers, street rods, or lightly modified LS builds.
- **Avoid it if:** You re building a high-performance vehicle with extreme suspension travel, need full engine support, or plan to run the engine without additional mounts (e.g., a full OBS or subframe).
- **Pair it with:** A sway bar, subframe, or additional engine mounts (such as a front or rear OBS) for maximum stability, especially in performance applications.
For most LS-based builds where stock mounts are failing, the **DD-LS-OBS2 clamshell is a worthwhile upgrade** just ensure proper installation and consider complementary support components for best results.
Its front placement on the vehicle makes it a reliable and durable choice for engine support. The Dirty Dingo DD-LS-OBS2 Engine Mount Clamshell is a high-performance engine mount designed for cars and trucks. Made of steel and featuring a bolt-on mounting style, this engine mount comes in pack 2 includes manufacturer warranty 1 year.